Criteria for accreditation of Foundation, Higher and Advanced Diploma qualifications version 2

Criteria for accreditation of Foundation, Higher and Advanced Diploma qualifications version 2 January 2009 Ofqual/08/3990

Contents Contents...1 Foreword...2 Introduction...4 1. Proposals and rationales...5 2. Aims of the Diploma...8 3. Qualification titles...11 4. Qualification structure...12 5. Component size...13 6. Assessment...15 7. Grading, determination and reporting of results...18 8. Principal learning component...19 9. Generic learning component...22 10. Additional and specialist learning component...48 11. Glossary...50 Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 1

Foreword Ofqual, the Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator, is the new regulator of qualifications, exams and tests in England. Ofqual has been set up to ensure that children, young people and adult learners get the results their work deserves, that standards are maintained and that qualifications count now and in the future. Ofqual also makes sure that the qualifications available meet the needs of learners and employers. The government will bring in legislation to establish Ofqual as the regulator of qualifications. Until this legislation is passed, Ofqual will operate as part of the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA). Afterwards, Ofqual will be accountable to Parliament rather than to government ministers. These criteria are for the accreditation of Diploma qualifications in England. They include the relevant common criteria for the accreditation of all qualifications from The statutory regulation of external qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland 2004 (QCA/04/1293) and are designed to be read in conjunction with the regulatory criteria for lines of learning and Regulatory arrangements for component and Diploma awarding bodies, version 2 (Ofqual/08/3761). These criteria have been reviewed against the requirements of the Race Relations Act 1976, Disability Discrimination Act 2005 and Equality Act 2006. These criteria do not apply to existing accredited qualifications that may contribute to the Diploma, which are subject to the regulatory criteria published in The statutory regulation of external qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland 2004. Diplomas will be awarded by a Diploma awarding body recognised by the qualifications regulators. Any awarding body wishing to award Diplomas will need to be a recognised awarding body, and also to obtain supplementary recognition by Ofqual to be a Diploma awarding body in England. Constituent qualifications of the Diploma will be awarded by component awarding bodies. Component awarding bodies must be recognised awarding bodies. Any awarding body wishing to award constituent qualifications of the Diploma will also need to obtain supplementary recognition by Ofqual to be a component awarding body in England. Qualifications are accredited by the qualifications regulators. Ofqual accredits Diplomas for offer in England. The Joint Advisory Committee for Qualifications Approval (JACQA) will submit a recommendation to the Secretary of State that the Diploma qualifications should be approved for funding eligibility under Section 96 of the Learning and Skills Act 2000, to be taught in state-maintained schools and/or funded in colleges. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 2

Component awarding bodies wishing to offer constituent qualifications should submit them to Ofqual as part of the relevant Diploma in England. Ofqual publishes the catalogue of constituent qualifications for the Diploma. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 3

Introduction The criteria for the accreditation of the Diploma as a qualification, alongside the criteria for each line of learning, set out the knowledge, understanding, skills and assessment objectives common to all Diplomas at all levels. These criteria provide the framework within which the awarding body creates the detail of the constituent qualifications and sets out its requirements for how these operate. Qualification criteria aim to: help ensure a coherent learning experience through consistent and comparable standards at the same level of the qualification, across a sector/subject and/or related sectors/subjects (referred to as a line of learning) and across the awarding bodies ensure that the rigour of the qualification is maintained define the relationship between the constituent qualifications that make up the components and the Diploma define the relationship at level 3 between the Advanced Diploma and the Progression Diploma provide a basis for the development of criteria for each line of learning help further and higher education institutions, employers and other stakeholders, know what has been studied and assessed. Diplomas will promote diversity, opportunity and inclusion by offering high quality, credible, applied learning, general learning and real opportunities to practise skills. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 4

1. Proposals and rationales Proposals and rationales Submissions for constituent qualifications may only be made by component awarding bodies that meet the criteria for supplementary recognition. Requirements for component awarding bodies are set out in the Regulatory arrangements for component and Diploma awarding bodies. Submissions for the award of the Diploma qualification will be made by recognised Diploma awarding bodies and accredited by Ofqual. Requirements for Diploma awarding bodies are set out in the Regulatory arrangements for component and Diploma awarding bodies. 1.1 A component awarding body submission to Ofqual for accreditation of constituent qualifications that contribute to the Diploma must relate to one or more of the following components of the Diploma: a. a set of units covering the full requirements for principal learning as defined for the line of learning b. qualifications that meet the additional and specialist learning requirements for the line of learning (see Section 10, 'Additional and specialist learning component') c. functional skills d. the project. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 5

The qualifications regulators have a statutory responsibility for ensuring that a sufficient range of qualifications are available to meet the needs of learners, without including an unnecessarily large number of qualifications. To achieve this, the qualifications regulators require awarding bodies to provide detailed rationales for the qualifications they submit for accreditation, including information about structure, content and assessment. These rationales must also explain how accreditation of the qualification would not lead to excessive provision within the relevant sector/subject area. Where, on the basis of the information provided, the qualifications regulators consider that accreditation of the qualification would lead to an excessive number of accredited qualifications within the sector/subject area, or an excessive number of qualifications serving the same or similar functions, accreditation may be refused. 1.2 Submissions to Ofqual for constituent qualifications that contribute to the Diploma must build on the previous information supplied in the component awarding body s updated plans of provision by setting out the basis on which it considers that each qualification must: a. bring additional benefits to users compared to other related qualifications, either by adopting innovative approaches to delivery and/or assessment, or by addressing the needs of an identifiable population not currently catered by existing accredited qualifications; submissions must be supported by research and indicate the anticipated numbers of centres and learners b. provide opportunities for progression to further learning and/or further qualifications and/or work or employment c. have the support of interested parties concerned with: education and training in relation to progression in educational courses and/or further qualifications work and employment in relation to employment opportunities d. be marketed and implemented in ways that will support its sustainability e. not lead to excessive provision of qualifications in a particular sector/subject f. take account of all current regulations and legislation in relation to diversity and inclusion, including the Disability Discrimination Act 2005. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 6

When considering proposals for the withdrawal of existing qualifications, the qualifications regulators need to consider whether the withdrawals and proposed timescales would disadvantage learners and/or employers. 1.3 If a constituent qualification that contributes to the Diploma is to be withdrawn, the component awarding body must negotiate with the qualifications regulators a timescale for withdrawal that will allow, where appropriate, alternative arrangements to be made. The awarding body must ensure that adequate notice is given to centres so that the interests of learners will be protected. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 7

2. Aims of the Diploma 2.1 The Diploma must encourage learners to develop and apply: a. knowledge, skills and understanding needed to progress into employment, training or further and/or higher education b. broad understanding and knowledge about a sector/subject and/or related sectors/subjects (referred to as a line of learning) c. skills, knowledge and understanding, and attributes related to the chosen sector(s)/subject(s) d. additional and specialist knowledge and skills to complement and broaden, deepen and/or extend relevant learning e. functional skills in mathematics, English and information and communication technology (ICT) at the appropriate level: level 1 or above in Foundation Diplomas, level 2 in Higher Diplomas, and prior achievement of level 2 in Advanced and Progression Diplomas f. transferable personal, learning and thinking skills (PLTS) (in independent enquiry, creative thinking, reflective learning, team working, self-managing and effective participation) g. investigative and project management skills through the project qualification h. skills gained through work experience. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 8

2.2 The general and applied nature of the Diploma qualification requires constituent qualifications that promote and recognise experiential learning. They must encourage learners to: a. learn through experience by applying knowledge and skills to tasks or contexts including those that have many of the characteristics of real work. This will be supported by work experience b. plan and reflect on their experience c. draw out and articulate lessons learnt (both generalised and specific) d. apply their learning to new activities or situations. 2.3 The Diploma qualification must also provide opportunities for planning and reviewing processes that are critical to experiential learning, coherent progression and successful attainment. 2.4 The Diploma qualification must include the identification of opportunities, if appropriate to the sector/subject, for developing understanding of: a. spiritual, moral, ethical, social, legislative, economic and cultural issues b. sustainable development, health and safety considerations, and European developments, consistent with international agreements. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 9

For further information and guidance on designing qualifications that support equality and diversity, refer to Fair access by design: designing inclusive vocational qualifications (RTF/06/2656) and Fair access by design: inclusive GCSE and GCE qualifications (PDF/05/1941) on Ofqual's website. 2.5 The Diploma qualification must aim to support equality and diversity by considering the needs of all potential learners to minimise any later need to make reasonable adjustments for learners who have particular requirements. Both in setting the structure and content of qualification, and in its processes and arrangements for assessment and awarding, the awarding body must: a. ensure access and equality of opportunity while safeguarding the integrity of the qualifications b. not create unnecessary barriers to achievement c. guarantee fair assessment for all learners, including those with particular assessment requirements d. take account of all current legislation in relation to equality of opportunity. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 10

3. Qualification titles Qualification titles To ensure clarity for all users, there must be consistency in respect of qualification titles. Diploma development partnerships will agree on the title for each line of learning with QCA and, at level 3, whether any specialised progression pathways are recognised. 3.1 The title of a Diploma qualification must: a. correspond with the title(s) required in the relevant line of learning criteria b. be sufficiently broad to cover the breadth of the different sectors/subjects within the line of learning, where relevant c. for Advanced Diplomas, follow the requirements for titles to indicate specialisms set out in the criteria for that line of learning. 3.2 The title of a Diploma qualification must be set out in the following order: the awarding body, the level (as indicated below) and title of the qualification, and the title of the line of learning: a. at level 1, 'Foundation Diploma in', followed by the title of the line of learning b. at level 2, 'Higher Diploma in' followed by the title of the line of learning c. at level 3, 'Advanced Diploma in' followed by the title of the line of learning, and to include any title indicating (in parentheses) a specialist focus. 3.3 Constituent qualification titles must be set out in the following order: the awarding body, the level of the qualification, the type of the qualification (where relevant), an indication of the content of the qualification, and (in parentheses) any indication of a specialist focus. 3.4 The titles of existing accredited qualifications must remain unchanged. 3.5 The title of principal learning qualifications must be set out in the following order: the awarding body, level of the qualification (level 1, 2 or 3), principal learning in, followed by the name of the relevant line of learning. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 11

4. Qualification structure Components The three components are designed to ensure a balance of practical and theoretical understanding, underpinned by essential skills. 4.1 Diploma qualifications must include qualifications that contribute to the three components of the Diploma. These components are: a. principal learning b. generic learning c. additional and specialist learning. Volume The volume of the Diploma is broadly comparable in terms of average length of study to: five GCSEs for the Foundation Diploma seven GCSEs for the Higher Diploma three and one-half GCE A levels for the Advanced Diploma two and one-half GCE A levels for the Progression Diploma. Progression Diploma At level 3, the Progression Diploma qualification is available, which comprises the principal learning and generic learning components of the Advanced Diploma. 4.2 The Diploma qualification must be structured from qualifications that comprise a minimum of: a. 600 guided learning hours (GLH) for the Foundation Diploma b. 800 GLH for the Higher Diploma c. 1,080 GLH for the Advanced Diploma d. 720 GLH for the Progression Diploma. 4.3 Within principal learning, assessment units must: a. have a title that reflects the content of the qualification and makes clear whether it is a unit or a whole qualification b. be assigned a credit value and level according to any guidelines issued by QCA for the Diploma c. be worth 30 and/or 60 GLH at levels 1 and 2 and 30 and/or 60 and/or 90 GLH at level 3 d. have identical learning outcomes and related assessment criteria when the unit shares its title with other unit(s) in different lines of learning offered by the same awarding body. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 12

5. Component size Component size The size of each of the components is expressed in GLH, which vary according to the level. The GLH referred to in the criteria relate to teacher-supervised or directed study time, and do not include any self-directed study time that may be needed by the learner. Generic learning The GLH for PLTS are not contextualised and will be used to enable learners to be taught, understand, selfassess and plan the development of PLTS. Functional skills may be taught across the Diploma qualification. They will be developed and practised within principal learning. To achieve an appropriate level of learning for functional skills, the integrated coverage is likely to be 120 GLH. This may vary according to the ability of the learners. 5.1 The size of the Foundation Diploma components must be as follows: a. principal learning is set at 240 GLH, of which 120 GLH as a minimum must be applied learning b. generic learning is set at 240 GLH, of which: 60 GLH must support the learning and development of PLTS 60 GLH must form the foundation project c. additional and specialist learning is set at a minimum of 120 GLH. Additional and specialist learning At each level, the GLH for additional and specialist learning is set as a minimum. Applied learning Applied learning involves acquiring and applying knowledge, skills and understanding through tasks set in sector/subject contexts that have many of the characteristics of real work or are set within the workplace. Most importantly, the purpose of the task in which learners apply their knowledge, skills and understanding must be relevant to the workplace. 5.2 The size of the Higher Diploma components must be as follows: a. principal learning is set at 420 GLH, of which 210 GLH as a minimum must be applied learning b. generic learning is set at 200 GLH, of which 60 GLH must support the learning and development of PLTS 60 GLH must form the higher project c. additional and specialist learning is set at a minimum of 180 GLH. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 13

5.3 The size of the Advanced Diploma components must be as follows: a. principal learning is set at 540 GLH, of which 270 GLH as a minimum must be applied learning b. generic learning is set at 180 GLH, of which: 60 GLH must support the learning and development of PLTS 120 GLH must form the extended project c. additional and specialist learning is set at a minimum of 360 GLH. 5.4 The size of the Progression Diploma components must be as follows: a. principal learning is set at 540 GLH, of which 270 GLH as a minimum must be applied learning b. generic learning is set at 180 GLH, of which: 60 GLH must support the learning and development of PLTS 120 GLH must form the extended project. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 14

6. Assessment Assessment requirements The assessment requirements are designed to ensure that assessment arrangements support progression to employment, training and further and/or higher education, while being suitable for the general and applied character of the Diploma. In practice this means that assessment arrangements should be: reliable produce judgements of a similar standard from occasion to occasion and between different assessors valid assess what it is intended to assess in terms of the learning outcomes transparent be expressed in ways that can be readily understood by learners, teachers and assessors manageable not impose undue burdens on learners, teachers, assessors or centres in terms of time, cost, personnel and resources balanced fairly reflect the content and associated learning outcomes, avoid confusing learning with assessment and not adversely affect teaching and learning. Awarding bodies should be aware of current legislation on discrimination in making adjustments and special considerations to take account of the differing needs of learners. For further information and guidance on designing assessments that support equality and diversity, refer to Fair access by design: designing inclusive vocational qualifications and Fair access by design: inclusive GCSE and GCE qualifications on Ofqual's website. 6.1 Assessment arrangements must be appropriate to the general and applied character of the Diploma and meet the following requirements: a. take account of the demands for rigour, fairness, reliability, authenticity, validity and fitness for purpose b. be transparent and manageable c. within principal learning and generic learning, be comparable in demand for all learners at each level across all lines of learning d. provide opportunities for learning and be designed to inform and support the different needs of individual learners, including those requiring reasonable adjustments and special consideration, in line with relevant legislation on equality of access e. be differential in approach and balance according to the level of the Diploma f. allow for flexibility of assessment styles and, when appropriate, facilitate e-learning and e-assessment g. offer a mixture of assessment types that reflect the purpose, sector/subject context and level h. offer equality of access and take account of all current regulations and legislation in relation to diversity and inclusion, including the Disability Discrimination Act 2005. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 15

Internal assessment Internal assessment methods should typically be used when they facilitate the assessment of: process skills generic skills practical skills the use of applied assessment opportunities. Internal assessment should be quality assured through internal and external moderation or verification. External assessment External assessment is defined as assessment in which assessment tasks are set, and learners work is assessed, by the awarding body. To ensure manageability for learners, assessment arrangements should take account of the structure of the Diploma, giving due consideration to each of its components, and to the aims of the qualification as a whole, and the importance of applied learning. 6.2 Assessment arrangements must ensure that the most valid, secure and reliable form of assessment is used that is fit for the purpose of the Diploma and must: a. enable learners to be assessed by means of internal assessment and external assessment b. for principal learning, ensure internal assessment is conducted under controlled conditions c. continue to apply the assessment arrangements for existing qualifications that contribute to additional and specialist learning d. include processes for the quality assurance of internal assessment and standardisation of external assessment across centres and assessors and over time e. enable assessment units to be combined for assessment purposes when appropriate to the level and learning to be assessed f. be appropriate for the level of the qualification g. be within the competence of the awarding body and/or its centres to implement successfully h. be manageable and cost-effective for centres to operate i. be free from any covert or overt discrimination, either in wording or in content. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 16

6.3 The design of assessment methods for qualifications within the Diploma must include assessment methods that are fit for purpose in that they: a. provide a valid measure of the required skills, knowledge and understanding b. provide opportunities for learners to demonstrate their abilities to meet the full range of requirements c. differentiate only on the basis of learners abilities to meet the requirements d. will be undertaken using the equipment and material specified by the awarding body in advance of the assessment taking place e. use assessment methods that are capable of selecting and judging evidence relevant to the learning outcomes to be assessed f. have options that are comparable in terms of the nature and volume of work required and the level of intellectual demand (if the assessment includes options) g. be free from any covert or overt discrimination, either in wording or in content. 6.4 The design of assessment methods for principal learning, the project and, when relevant, qualifications specifically developed to support specialist pathways within additional and specialist learning for a line of learning, must include assessment tasks concerned with applied learning through real work or work-related purposes, problems or contexts. 6.5 The chosen method or methods of assessment must be appropriate to the Diploma and must comply with any requirements in relevant criteria published by the qualifications regulators, unless otherwise agreed in advance with the qualifications regulators, and they must meet the assessment principles in Section 6.1 to 6.2 above. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 17

7. Grading, determination and reporting of results Grading and reporting Further information on awarding of the Diploma and its components can be found in the Regulatory arrangements for component and Diploma awarding bodies, version 2. Grading Further information can be found in the report Arrangements for awarding and setting standards in the Diploma: Principal learning, project and Diploma Final report of the Diploma Awarding and Standards Group (Ofqual/08/3865). 7.1 Diploma awarding bodies must have in place arrangements for grading and reporting of the Diploma according to the following grading scales: a. Foundation Diploma attainment that is sufficient to lead to the award of the qualification is reported as A*, A and B b. Higher Diploma attainment that is sufficient to lead to the award of the qualification is reported as A*, A, B and C c. Advanced and Progression Diploma attainment that is sufficient to lead to the award of the qualification is reported as A*, A, B, C, D and E d. attainment that is insufficient to lead to the award of a qualification is reported as unclassified (U). 7.2 The Foundation and Higher Diploma grade must be derived from the aggregate of principal learning unit scores and foundation and higher project score for the appropriate level. 7.3 The Advanced and Progression Diploma grade must be derived from the aggregate of principal learning unit scores and extended project score. For criterion 7.4, see also Sections 8.4 8 on the criteria for principal learning and Sections 9.4.10 15, 9.4.23-9.4.28, 9.4.36-9.4.41 on foundation, higher and extended projects respectively. 7.4 Principal learning, foundation and higher projects and the extended project must be graded separately and use the same grading system as the Diploma. 7.5 The grading models for existing qualifications that contribute to additional and specialist learning must continue to apply. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 18

8. Principal learning component Principal learning Principal learning submitted by awarding bodies must: be specifically developed for the Diploma demonstrate employer support, gained through working with Diploma development partnerships during the qualification development process (also refer to Section 1.2c) reflect the vision of the line of learning meet the criteria for the line of learning and content requirements. 8.1 The principal learning component is a constituent qualification of the Diploma and must: a. focus on developing and applying knowledge, skills and understanding relevant to the sector/subject b. place an emphasis on learning by doing and include a defined proportion of the programme that is concerned with the application of knowledge, skills and understanding through relevant work and work-related tasks, problems and contexts (see also Section 5, 'Component size') c. include within principal learning at levels 1 and 2 assessment units that identify learning outcomes and assessment criteria that are based on 30 and/or 60 GLH d. include within principal learning at level 3 assessment units that identify learning outcomes and assessment criteria that are based on 30 and/or 60 and/or 90 GLH e. comprise units of assessment with titles that reflect the content and the sector/subject. Compliance with line of learning criteria With the agreement of the Diploma development partnership and QCA, awarding bodies may reorganise the content, providing that the submitted units of assessment meet the criteria for accreditation of Diploma qualifications and relevant line of learning criteria. 8.2 The subject matter of the assessment units within principal learning must: a. comply with the line of learning criteria for each level b. give a clear indication of coverage and depth c. be expressed in terms of learning outcomes and assessment criteria d. be accurate and innovative e. be aligned with the relevant level descriptors, specified by the qualifications regulators for accredited qualifications. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 19

Integration of generic skills Units of principal learning should include explicit opportunities for integrating generic skills within the learning outcomes and associated content. The full range of opportunities for developing and applying generic skills should be summarised so that learners can plan and review their achievement. 8.3 Principal learning must enable generic skills to be developed and applied, including: a. functional skills (see Section 9.1) b. PLTS (see Section 9.2). 8.4 Principal learning must be assessed by means of a combination of internal and external assessment. 30 GLH at level 1 and 60 GLH at level 2 must be externally assessed. At level 3,120 GLH or 180 GLH must be externally assessed as specified in the criteria for each line of learning. Controlled assessment The criteria in section 8.5 reflect guidance previously published in the report Diploma principal learning controlled assessment guidelines 2008. Refer to this report for further information. 8.5 Internal assessment must be conducted under controlled conditions to ensure reliability and fairness. Requirements must be set out that ensure robustness at each stage of internal assessment, including: a. the setting of tasks b. the conditions under which assessment takes place c. supervision and feedback d. resubmission e. marking f. standardisation g. moderation. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 20

Grading and reporting Further information on the awarding of principal learning can be found in Regulatory arrangements for component and Diploma awarding bodies and in the report Arrangements for awarding and setting standards in the Diploma Principal learning, project and Diploma Final report of the Diploma Awarding and Standards Group (Ofqual/08/3865). 8.6 Principal learning must be graded according to the following separate grading scales: a. level 1 attainment that is sufficient to lead to the award of the qualification is reported as A*, A and B b. level 2 attainment that is sufficient to lead to the award of the qualification is reported as A*, A, B and C c. level 3 attainment that is sufficient to lead to the award of the qualification is reported as A*, A, B, C, D and E 8.7 Attainment that is insufficient to lead to the award of a qualification is reported as unclassified (U). 8.8 Each principal learning unit must be graded separately. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 21

9. Generic learning component 9.1 Functional skills 9.1.1 Functional skills qualifications in English, mathematics and ICT at level 1 or above must be required for the Foundation Diploma and at level 2 for the Higher Diploma (the achievement of the Advanced and Progression Diplomas require prior achievement of level 2 functional skills). 9.1.2 The Diploma must provide opportunities for learners to develop and apply functional skills within sector/subject relevant contexts. 9.1.3 Where relevant, other achievements required in English, mathematics and ICT that go beyond functional skills at the specified level must be identified. Assessment of functional skills 9.1.4 Functional skills must be assessed as discrete units. The assessment of functional skills is subject to separate development work. The assessment principles for all three functional skills are available on the QCA website at www.qca.org.uk/ functionalskills. 9.2 Personal, learning and thinking skills PLTS guidance Refer to QCA guidance on PLTS within the Diploma for further information Further opportunities to develop and apply PLTS may be offered in other aspects of the Diploma programme. 9.2.1 The Diploma qualification must require opportunities to develop and apply all six PLTS within principal learning: a. independent enquiry b. creative thinking Level differentiation will occur through the process of integrating PLTS within principal learning. c. reflective learning d. team working e. self-management f. effective participation. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 22

9.2.2 Principal learning at each level must: a. be accompanied by copies of the personal, learning and thinking skills framework b. summarise the full range of opportunities for developing and applying PLTS so that learners can plan and review their achievement c. support the achievement of PLTS as appropriate to the level of the Diploma; differentiation between the levels must be determined by: the amount of support a learner is given the degree of sophistication of the skills used the level of demand of the task, problem or context in which these skills are applied. 9.2.3 At all levels of the Diploma, principal learning must include all six PLTS. These must be integrated as a minimum within the assessment criteria for principal learning to explicitly recognise the application of these skills in sector/subject related contexts. The coverage of PLTS must be reported in the Diploma transcript. 9.3 Work experience Work experience may be spread over the course of the Diploma and should be in an area of work that is relevant to the principal learning. 9.3.1 At each level of the Diploma qualification, a learner must complete at least 10 days of work experience. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 23

9.4 Foundation, higher and extended projects The projects criteria have been taken from the stand alone criteria for foundation, higher and extended projects, published August 2008 (QCA/08/3669). 9.4.1 The foundation, higher and extended projects are freestanding single unit qualifications and are constituent qualifications of the Foundation, Higher and Advanced Diplomas which can be taken at the level of the Diploma or the level above. The title of all project qualifications must be set out in the following order: the awarding body, level of the qualification ('Foundation' for Level 1, 'Higher' for Level 2 and 'Extended' for Level 3), project. 9.4.2 The project at all levels can have a number of different outcomes including: a. a report with findings from an investigation or study b. a dissertation c. an artefact d. a performance. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 24

Foundation project Aims and learning outcomes 9.4.3 The foundation project must enable learners to: a. develop and apply skills b. develop as inquisitive and independent learners c. be inspired by new areas and/or methods of study d. plan and review their learning e. use their learning experiences to support their personal aspirations for further study and/or career development f. develop, where appropriate, as electronically confident learners and apply appropriate technologies in their studies g. transfer skills developed as part of their foundation project to other areas of study. Scope of project 9.4.4 The foundation project must: a. form part of a planned programme of study b. be of sufficient breadth and depth to allow learners to address the broad aims and learning outcomes listed above c. be based on an agreed set of standards and assessment d. have the potential to be researched and completed within one academic year e. require 60 GLH. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 25

Topic of project 9.4.5 Learners are required to select a suitable topic for their foundation project. This means that: a. the topic must be chosen by learners through negotiation with their teacher, mentor or tutor and, if appropriate, an employer b. the component awarding body must ensure centres confirm that learners project topics are relevant in one or both of the following ways: how the project topic complements and develops the themes and topics for learners principal learning as set out in the relevant line of learning criteria how it supports learner progression c. learners may choose one of many different types of project, but the topic selected must have the potential to provide the learner with opportunities to meet all the foundation project assessment objectives. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 26

Subject content 9.4.6 The foundation project must require learners to: a. select, either individually or as part of a group, an appropriate topic b. identify a question, task or brief that specifies an intended project outcome c. produce a plan for how they will deliver their intended project outcome d. conduct research into the project brief using appropriate techniques e. develop the intended project outcome using selected tools and techniques safely f. demonstrate the capacity to see through a project to completion g. share the outcome of the project, including a review of their own learning and performance, with others, using appropriate communication methods. 9.4.7 During the course of completing their foundation project, learners must demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of their studies or areas of interest. Criterion on key skills has been removed for the purposes of this document. 9.4.8 During the course of completing their foundation project, learners must be provided with opportunities to apply and develop: a. PLTS b. the functional skills of mathematics, English and ICT c. any further specialist technical skills, where relevant to the chosen topic. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 27

Assessment of the project The scheme of assessment for the project must make clear the relationship between the project learning outcomes, assessment and grading criteria and the project assessment objectives for the relevant level of the project. Assessment 9.4.9 The foundation project must be a single-unit, internally assessed qualification. The awarding body s assessment system must be sufficiently robust to ensure comparability and consistency, as well as rigour and fairness between learners, between centres, and from year to year. 9.4.10 The assessment system must include: a. centre approval of the appropriateness of the project proposal b. agreement on the range of acceptable evidence c. evidence of monitoring by teachers d. clear protocols for provision of advice, guidance, interim reviews and redrafting opportunities e. arrangements for quality assurance of the assessment f. authentication of learner work by teachers g. verification or moderation of centres and centre staff h. mark schemes that reflect the detail and demand of the assessment objectives and grade descriptions. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 28

Scheme of assessment 9.4.11 The scheme of assessment must: Written element Any reference to 'writing' or 'written communication' should be interpreted as the production of text by any means, for example via pen, word processor or other means. a. include a specified written element b. reflect the aims and content of the specification c. address the assessment objectives for the foundation project d. specify the type and format of evidence that is permissible e. stipulate a maximum mark of at least 30 f. be through internal assessment. Assessment objectives 9.4.12 All learners are required to meet the following assessment objectives. The assessment objectives must be weighted as indicated below. Foundation project assessment objectives A01 Manage Select, plan and carry out a project, applying skills and methods to achieve objectives. A02 Use resources Obtain, select and use information, and select and use resources. A03 Develop and realise Use a range of skills, including, where appropriate, new technologies, to achieve planned outcomes. A04 Review Identify and consider project outcomes, and own learning and performance. Use communication skills to present project outcomes in an appropriate format. Per cent weighting 15 25 15 25 35 45 15 25 Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 29

Evidence format Further information on assessment evidence for the project process or the outcome can be found in QCA curriculum planning guidance for each level of the project. Assessment evidence 9.4.13 The assessment evidence must include evidence of: a. the planning and process of the foundation project b. sources of and range of information and other resources accessed c. the range of skills used, including, where appropriate, the use of new technologies d. the knowledge, understanding and skills used to complete the tasks/activities of the project e. an outcome demonstrating the individual s knowledge, understanding and skills f. a review of the outcomes of the project, and an evaluation of own performance and learning. Grading Further information on awarding of the project can be found in the operating rules in Regulatory arrangements for component and Diploma awarding bodies and in the report Arrangements for awarding and setting standards in the Diploma: Principal learning, project and Diploma Final report of the Diploma Awarding and Standards Group. Grading 9.4.14 Awarding bodies must specify arrangements for grading and reporting of the foundation project so that: a. attainment that is sufficient to lead to the award of the qualification is reported on a three-grade scale from A* to B, where A* is the highest b. attainment that is insufficient to lead to the award of a certificate is reported as unclassified (U) c. the grades awarded match the grade descriptions published by the qualifications regulators. Grade descriptions These grade descriptions have been developed for the purposes of the pilot and may be subject to change. 9.4.15 Grade descriptions are as follows: a. Grade A* Learners select their project and show good organisational skills in planning the project. There is clear evidence that they have responded effectively to guidance given. They obtain and select relevant information and use a range of resources to good effect. Problems and issues are identified and conclusions drawn. Learners use a Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 30

range of skills including, where appropriate, new technologies, to achieve good quality outcomes that realise the intentions of the project. They use communication skills to present their project outcomes clearly and in an appropriate format. In their summary, learners reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of their project and on their own learning. They demonstrate through their responses to questions good knowledge of the topic area studied at this level. b. Grade B Learners select their project and produce plans that enable them to achieve some of their overall objectives. There is some evidence that they have responded to guidance given. Learners obtain and use some information and make use of some resources. Some problems and issues are identified, some conclusions drawn, and intended outcomes are partially realised. Elements of the project are generally well presented through the use of communication skills. In their summary, learners comment on their strengths and weaknesses in carrying out their project. They demonstrate through their responses to questions basic knowledge of the topic area studied at this level. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 31

Higher project Aims and learning outcomes 9.4.16 The higher project must enable learners to: a. develop and apply skills b. develop as inquisitive and independent learners c. be inspired by new areas and/or methods of study d. plan and review their learning e. use their learning experiences to support their personal aspirations for further study and/or career development f. develop, where appropriate, as electronically confident learners and apply appropriate technologies in their studies g. transfer skills developed as part of their higher project to other areas of study. Scope of project 9.4.17 The higher project must: a. form part of a planned programme of study b. be of sufficient breadth and depth to allow learners to address the broad aims and learning outcomes listed above c. be based on an agreed set of standards and assessment d. have the potential to be researched and completed within one academic year e. require 60 GLH. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 32

Topic of project 9.4.18 Learners are required to select a suitable topic for their higher project. This means that: a. the topic must be chosen by learners through negotiation with their teacher, mentor or tutor and, if appropriate, an employer b. the component awarding body must ensure that centres confirm that learners project topics are relevant in one or both of the following ways: how the project topic complements and develops the themes and topics for learners principal learning as set out in the relevant line of learning criteria how it supports learner progression c. learners may choose one of many different types of project, but the topic selected must have the potential to provide the learner with opportunities to meet all the higher project assessment objectives. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 33

Subject content 9.4.19 The higher project must require learners to: a. select, either individually or as part of a group, an appropriate topic b. identify a question, task or brief that specifies an intended project outcome c. produce a plan for how they will deliver their intended project outcome d. conduct research into the project brief using appropriate techniques e. develop the intended project outcome using selected tools and techniques safely f. demonstrate the capacity to see through a project to completion g. share the outcome and an evaluation of the higher project, including a review of their own learning and performance, with others, using appropriate communication methods. 9.4.20 During the course of completing their higher project, learners must demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of concepts and principles underlying their studies or areas of interest. Criterion on key skills has been removed for the purposes of this document. 9.4.21 During the course of completing their higher project, learners must be provided with opportunities to apply and develop: a. PLTS b. the functional skills of mathematics, English and ICT c. any further specialist technical skills, where relevant to the chosen topic. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 34

Assessment of the project The scheme of assessment for the project must make clear the relationship between the project learning outcomes, assessment and grading criteria and the project assessment objectives for the relevant level of the project. Assessment 9.4.22 The higher project must be a single-unit, internally assessed qualification. The awarding body s assessment system must be sufficiently robust to ensure comparability and consistency, as well as rigour and fairness between learners, between centres, and from year to year. 9.4.23 The assessment system must include: a. centre approval of the appropriateness of the project proposal b. agreement on the range of acceptable evidence c. evidence of monitoring by teachers d. clear protocols for provision of advice, guidance, interim reviews and redrafting opportunities e. arrangements for quality assurance of the assessment f. authentication of learner work by teachers g. verification or moderation of centres and centre staff h. mark schemes that reflect the detail and demand of the assessment objectives and grade descriptions. Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 35

Scheme of assessment 9.4.24 The scheme of assessment must: Written element Any reference to 'writing' or 'written communication' should be interpreted as the production of text by any means, for example pen, word processor or other means. a. include a specified written element b. reflect the aims and content of the specification c. address the assessment objectives for the higher project d. specify the type and format of evidence that is permissible e. stipulate a maximum mark of at least 30 f. be through internal assessment. Assessment objectives 9.4.25 All learners are required to meet the following assessment objectives. The assessment objectives must be weighted as indicated below. Higher project assessment objectives A01 Manage Identify, plan and carry out a project, applying a range of skills and methods to achieve objectives. A02 Use resources Research, select, organise and use information, and select and use a range of resources. Interpret data and apply findings. A03 Develop and realise Select and use a range of skills, including, where appropriate, new technologies and problem-solving, to achieve planned outcomes. A04 Review Evaluate project outcomes and own learning and performance. Use communication skills to present evidenced project outcomes and conclusions in an appropriate format. Per cent weighting 15 25 15 25 35 45 15 25 Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 36

Evidence format Further information on assessment evidence for the project process or the outcome can be found in QCA curriculum planning guidance for each level of the project. Assessment evidence 9.4.26 The assessment evidence must include evidence of: a. the planning and process of the higher project b. sources of and range of information and other resources accessed c. the range of skills used, including, where appropriate, the use of new technologies d. the knowledge, understanding and skills used to complete the tasks/activities of the project e. an outcome demonstrating the individual s knowledge, understanding and skills f. an evaluation of the outcomes of the project, and an evaluation of own performance and learning. Grading Further information on awarding of the project can be found in Regulatory arrangements for component and Diploma awarding bodies and in the report Arrangements for awarding and setting standards in the Diploma: Principal learning, project and Diploma Final report of the Diploma Awarding and Standards Group. Grading 9.4.27 Awarding bodies must specify arrangements for grading and reporting of the higher project so that: a. attainment that is sufficient to lead to the award of a qualification is reported on a four grade scale from A* to C, where A* is the highest b. attainment that is insufficient to lead to the award of a qualification is reported as unclassified (U) c. the grades awarded match the grade descriptions published by the qualifications regulators. Grade descriptions These grade descriptions have been developed for the purposes of the pilot and may be subject to change. 9.4.28 Grade descriptions are as follows: a. Grade A* Learners identify their project and produce well structured and well organised plans. There is clear evidence that they have responded effectively to guidance given. Learners research, select, organise and use relevant information and use a range of suitable resources to good effect. Problems and issues are identified and conclusions drawn. Learners select and use a Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator 2009 37